The 1997 Pittsburgh Steelers enjoyed a successful transition year, finishing with an 11-5 record and clinching their fourth consecutive AFC Central division title. Led by "Slash" Kordell Stewart in his first year as the starting quarterback and a dominant ground game powered by Jerome Bettis's 1,665 rushing yards, the team featured the league's top-ranked rushing attack. The season was highlighted by three exciting overtime victories and a resilient defense that helped the squad advance to the AFC Championship Game after a gritty 7-6 playoff win over the New England Patriots. Nicknamed "Slash" for his versatility as a quarterback, wide receiver, and punter, Kordell Stewart was a dynamic dual-threat playmaker who led the Pittsburgh Steelers to two AFC Championship Games and earned 2001 Pro Bowl honors during his 11-season NFL career.